Ground Beef Sweet Potato Skillet
This Ground Beef Sweet Potato Skillet combines seasoned ground beef with roasted sweet potatoes, making for a quick, nutritious, and delicious meal. The sweetness of the sweet potatoes perfectly balances the savory flavor of the ground beef, with a touch of warm spices like cumin and paprika. This one-pan dish is perfect for busy weeknights or meal prepping for the week ahead.
Equipment
- Skillet or large frying pan (for cooking ground beef)
- Baking sheet (for roasting sweet potatoes)
- Knife and cutting board
- Measuring spoons
- Oven or stovetop
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef 80/20 for best flavor or leaner cuts like 90/10
- 2 medium sweet potatoes peeled and diced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil for roasting sweet potatoes
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil for cooking ground beef
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
- Optional toppings: avocado sour cream, shredded cheese, or salsa
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Roast the Sweet Potatoes: Peel and dice the sweet potatoes into 1-inch cubes. Toss them in 1 tablespoon of olive oil and season with salt, pepper, cumin, and paprika. Spread them evenly on a baking sheet and roast for 25-30 minutes, flipping once, until golden and tender.
- Cook the Ground Beef: While the sweet potatoes are roasting, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spatula, until browned (about 6-8 minutes). Drain any excess fat if necessary.
- Season the Beef: Once the beef is cooked, add garlic powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine and cook for another 2 minutes to allow the spices to infuse the beef.
- Combine the Ingredients: Once the sweet potatoes are done, add them to the skillet with the ground beef. Stir gently to combine everything, allowing the flavors to meld together.
- Serve: Serve the ground beef and sweet potato mixture in bowls or plates. Garnish with fresh cilantro and any optional toppings like avocado, shredded cheese, or a dollop of sour cream.
Notes
Meal Prep: This recipe is perfect for meal prep. Simply store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for 4-5 days, and reheat when ready to serve.
Add Extra Veggies: Feel free to add more vegetables to the skillet, like spinach, bell peppers, or onions, to boost the nutrient content of the dish.
Spicy Variation: For a spicier version, add chopped jalapeños or red pepper flakes to the beef while cooking.
Low-Carb Option: If you’re on a low-carb diet, replace the sweet potatoes with cauliflower rice or zucchini for a lighter alternative.